It is known by various names but the famous is Agbalumo among the Yoruba people and Udara among the Igbos. It is known among the English man as African Star Apple and its scientific name is Chrysophyllum africanum or Chrysophyllum albidum.In Ghana,its know as Alansa
1. African star apple contains more Vitamin C/ascorbic acid than Orange. This vitamin helps prevent scurvy, a mouth gum disease.
2. If you have sour throat, constipation or toothache, why not try taking Udara.
3. A research by scientist reveals that Agbalumo could lower blood sugar and cholesterol, and could be useful in preventing and treating heart diseases.
4. The different plant parts like the roots, barks and leaves are used for healing cough, yellow fever, high blood pressure and much more.
5. In some parts of Nigeria, the seed is used to treat skin infections.
6. It is believed that consuming the fruit can help fight cancer and diabetes.
7. It could serve as a natural source of Anti-Oxidant booster to remove free radicals from oxidative stress disorders.
8. Agbalumo helps you lose weight. The fruit contributes 3g of fiber to the recommended daily intake of 25 to 38g. Fiber provides bulk to your diet, a factor that can make your stomach feel fuller for longer. This can keep you from eating too much, and it may help you lose weight.
9. Present in Udara are phytochemicals such as Tannins, flavonoids, terpenoids, proteins, carbohydrates and resins.
10. The bark of the tree according to research was used traditionally to treat yellow fever and malaria, while the leaf treated wounds, stomachache, and diarrhea
11. Agbalumo/Udara is a natural remedies for toothache, constipation, sore throat, and much more. Also in some parts of Nigeria the seeds are used to treat vaginal and skin infections
12. White star apple had been suggested to contain more vitamin C than orange and guava, the fruit is also rich in calcium, iron potassium, phosphorous, magnesium, tannins, flavonoids, terpenoids, and phyto-chemicals.
As with all fruits and food, moderation is key. Do not consume Agbalumo excessively because it could lead to heartburn.
